OUACHITA PARISH, La. — Ouachita Green and its local affiliates will celebrate Louisiana Arbor Day on Friday, January 16, 2026, with a series of tree-planting ceremonies held throughout Ouachita Parish.
Observed annually on the third Friday in January, Arbor Day emphasizes the vital role trees play in building healthy, sustainable communities. The Arbor Day Foundation describes the holiday as a symbol of hope for the future, noting that planting a tree reflects a belief in cleaner air and water, cooling shade, wildlife habitat, stronger neighborhoods, and lasting natural beauty.
Ouachita Green affiliates will commemorate Arbor Day by planting trees that represent growth and renewal while honoring individuals and groups who have made meaningful, lasting contributions to the community.
Scheduled Arbor Day events include:
- 8:30 a.m. — Keep Sterlington Beautiful will recognize student accomplishments at Sterlington High School.
- 10:00 a.m. — Keep West Monroe Beautiful will honor the memory of Lisa Richardson near the Sunken Gardens at Kiroli Park, West Monroe.
- 11:00 a.m. — Keep Monroe Beautiful will honor the memory of Billie Ann Ruple Haynes at Neville High School, Monroe.
- 2:00 p.m. — Keep Ouachita Parish Beautiful will honor the memory of Matt Hendrix at the Ouachita Parish Rifle Range, West Monroe.
Trees provide numerous environmental benefits, including reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, improving air and water quality, managing stormwater, and supporting wildlife habitat.
The public is invited to attend these ceremonies and to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree at home, at a business, or within the community.
For more information, please contact Ouachita Green.